The Norwegian version of the Experiences in Close Relationships measure of adult attachment: Psychometric properties and normative data

Abstract

Background: Self-report questionnaires have facilitated attachment research, and validation of these instruments in different languages and cultures has become of importance. The Experiences in Close Relationships measure (ECR) is a well-established and suitable tool for cross-cultural comparisons of adult attachment. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the ECR and to develop a shorter version. We also investigated the associations between socio-demographic characteristics and attachment styles as measured by the ECR on the anxiety and avoidance subscales. Methods: Data were anonymously collected by a mailed questionnaire to young adults aged 30, 40 and 45 years. With a response rate of 29%, 437 individuals were included. Exploratory factor analysis was performed and confirmatory factor analysis was done by structural equation modelling. Results and conclusions: The psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the ECR were satisfying and comparable with the properties reported by other translations. Individuals who scored low on both avoidance and anxiety scales were more likely to live in paired relations, have paid work, rate themselves with good health and in general be more satisfied with their lives. A new 12 item short version of the ECR showed good psychometric properties and similar associations to socio-demographic variables. Taking into account its brevity and feasibility further research on attachment style with ECR in clinical samples should be performed.

• Adult attachment
• Norwegian
• Psychometrics
• Self-report

Acknowledgements

The data sampling of the study was financed by money from the Lundbeck (Norway) Price of Psychiatry 2007 granted to the first author. The company had no influence of the design of the study, data analyses or presentation of the results.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

Appendix: The ECR-N12 in Norwegian

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